There are different types of Cucumbers available to buy at most grocery stores so when looking for the freshest, crunchiest cukes, there are a few things you should keep in mind—regardless of type.
First, ensure they are firm to the touch. Soft spots, particularly at the tips, indicate the cucumber is nearing the end of its shelf life. Next, look for cucumbers with a consistent color all over. Bright skin is ideal, while yellow spots suggest over-ripeness and potential internal spoilage. Although Cucumbers have a slightly rougher skin than some other veggies, the Cucumber shouldn’t have wrinkly, shrivelled skin. This is a sign that the Cucumber has lost moisture after being in a high-temperature environment or in storage for too long.